Publisher - Adachi from a rare series of Edo masterwork designs. Adachi publisher seal in margin or on reverse.

Adachi was one of the most respected publishers of the 20th century. Their woodblocks were printed to the highest standards with excellent color and fine detail. Founded in 1925, Adachi also chose interesting and varied subjects for their prints and was the only publisher of many famous old ukiyo-e images.

Comments - Lovely Eisui design of the young courtesan Yosooi of the Matsubaya playing a small hand drum. She holds the instrument with one hand as she taps out a rhythm with her slender fingers. An attractive okubi-e or large head portrait, detailed with embossing in the blossoms on the kimono and the white stripes on the cords of the drum.

Woodblock reprints - In the 20th century, artists and publishers collaborated to recreate famous woodblock prints for interested Japanese collectors and Westerners looking for rare designs. New blocks were made, and the prints were painstakingly printed by artisan printers in the same method as the 19th century originals - one block for each color. Woodblock reprints were an opportunity to collect and enjoy a famous design at a small fraction of the price of an original. They still are today.

Artist - Eisui (active circa 1790 - 1823)

Image Size - 15 1/8" x 10" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Some slight spotting. Please see photos for details.